Flow Analysis of Augmented High-Lift Systems

Summary

Recent progress in numerical flow simulation methods and flow measurement techniques opens up new potentials for designing and optimizing augmented high-lift systems. This research is directed towards substantially higher lift coefficients, needed for future generations of quiet transport aircraft with short take-off and landing capabilities. Based upon a review of several decades of powered lift research the present investigations focus on advanced circulation control concepts and their integration with modern transonic wing sections. The gains of blowing moderate amounts of compressed air over carefully selected Coanda surfaces are studied. Numerical flow field analysis is used to identify performance sensitivities and explore the design parameter space. Directions of future research needed to mature this technology for transport aircraft applications are identified and discussed.